Ong, the former president of National Geographic Channel, oversaw Star Group Limited before joining Travel Channel in April 2010. The previous December, Scripps Networks Interactive, whose brands include Cooking Channel and HGTV, acquired a majority stake in the network at auction.

"I came here to help transition Travel Channel into the Scripps family of lifestyle brands, put together a great leadership and creative team and position the network for unprecedented growth," Ong stated.

Burton Jablin-- who replaced John Lansing aspresident of Scripps Networks operating division in September -- will take over her duties while the channel looks for a permanent replacement. Jablin joined HGTV in 1994.

The channel recently announced renewals of four original series for the 2014 season: Bizarre Foods America, Dangerous Grounds, Hotel Impossible and Mysteries at the Museum.